ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Forensic Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Aperture, LLC

Forensic Expert

Houston, TX

Forensic Expert - Accident Reconstruction Expert About Aperture Aperture is a national portfolio of best-in-class forensic engineering companies providing full-service expert analysis. Aperture ...

NV5

Forensic Structural Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

Overview Forensic Structural Engineer - Remote - Houston, TX At NV5, we are a team of talented professionals, engineers, and consultants who are builders, problem solvers, and champions for both our ...

NV5

Forensic Structural Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

Overview Forensic Structural Engineer - Remote - Houston, TX At NV5, we are a team of talented professionals, engineers, and consultants who are builders, problem solvers, and champions for both our ...

NV5

Forensic Structural Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

Forensic Structural Engineer - Remote - Houston, TX At NV5, we are a team of talented professionals, engineers, and consultants who are builders, problem solvers, and champions for both our ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsForensic Engineer JobsForensic Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

Forensic Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$41.5K

$122.6K

$310.4K

How much do forensic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic engineer in Houston, TX is $122,594.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,600.00 and $124,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forensic engineer?

A forensic engineer specializes in accident and failure analysis of structures or product that have failed to perform correctly and to discover whether there is a design flaw. As a forensic engineer, your responsibilities include examining the product or structure that did not perform as intended, collecting and analyzing the evidence and making recommendations for future preventative measures. Your job is to oversee the investigation of the design, materials, and all other contributing factors in the failure, to prevent future incidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forensic engineer?

To thrive as a Forensic Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, analytical problem-solving, and an accredited engineering degree, often paired with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with specialized investigation tools, CAD software, and report-writing systems is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication skills help you stand out in this role. These competencies are essential for accurately analyzing incidents, preparing clear technical reports, and providing credible expert testimony in legal contexts.

What are some common challenges forensic engineers face during investigations?

Forensic engineers often encounter challenges such as incomplete or damaged evidence, tight deadlines, and the need to communicate complex technical findings to non-experts like legal teams or juries. They must meticulously document their work and maintain objectivity, as their analyses may be scrutinized in court. Collaboration with other specialists, such as law enforcement or insurance investigators, is key to piecing together accurate conclusions from limited information.

What is the difference between Forensic Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectForensic EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, Professional Engineer (PE) license, specialized training in accident or failure analysisEngineering degree, PE license, focus on structural design and analysis
Work EnvironmentInvestigations, courtrooms, consulting firms, insurance companiesConstruction sites, design offices, consulting firms
Industry UsageLegal cases, failure analysis, accident investigationsBuilding design, construction, structural assessments

While both roles require engineering credentials and a PE license, forensic engineers focus on investigating failures and providing expert testimony in legal cases, often working in investigative and courtroom settings. Structural engineers primarily design and analyze structures, working on construction projects and structural assessments. The two roles overlap in engineering expertise but differ in their primary functions and work environments.

Are forensic engineers in demand?

Forensic engineers are in steady demand due to their role in investigating failures, accidents, and structural issues across various industries. Employment opportunities are often linked to construction, insurance, and legal sectors, with a need for strong technical skills and relevant certifications. The field is expected to grow as infrastructure and safety regulations evolve.

What does a forensic engineer do?

A forensic engineer investigates failures, accidents, or damages related to structures, products, or systems to determine causes and liability. They analyze evidence, prepare reports, and may testify in court, often using tools like CAD software and requiring engineering licensure. Their work supports legal and insurance processes by providing expert opinions.
More about Forensic Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Forensic Engineer jobs in Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Forensic Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Forensic Engineer jobs in Houston, TX?

For Forensic Engineer jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forensic Engineer jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Forensic Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Forensic Engineer jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Forensic Engineer job openings:

Forensic Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,594 per year, or $58.9 per hour.

Forensic Electrical Engineer, Professional Engineer

Salas O'Brien Engineers Incorporated

Sugar Land, TX • On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Salas O'Brien rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 449 rated engineering

Job description

At Haag, a Salas O'Brien company, we've been a trusted leader in forensic engineering and consulting since 1924, helping clients solve complex, high-stakes problems when it matters most. We're known for technical excellence, integrity, and clear, defensible conclusions. We're equally committed to building a career environment where talented engineers can do their best work, grow their expertise, and make a real impact.
In June 2024, Haag merged with Salas O'Brien, expanding what's possible for our team. Haag remains focused on forensic engineering, and we now offer the added strength of a broader, employee-owned organization. This brings deeper technical resources, expanded collaboration, and more opportunities to build your career across a wide range of disciplines and industries.
Founded in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We are engineered for impact, and we bring that same commitment to our people as we do to our projects.
We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for energy, manufacturing and industrial process, data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, education, and more.
Job Summary
We're seeking a Forensic Electrical Engineer to join our team. In this remote/home office role, you will investigate and evaluate the root cause and extent of failures and damage involving electrical systems, components, and devices across residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Key Responsibilities
  • Forensic Investigations: Conduct field inspections to determine the origin, cause, and extent of electrical failures, including fires, explosions, and system malfunctions.
  • Analysis & Reporting: Develop clear, well-supported conclusions and produce comprehensive technical reports and documentation.
  • Client Communication: Provide timely, professional updates to clients, attorneys, insurers, and internal stakeholders; manage expectations and maintain strong relationships.
  • Collaboration & Independence: Work independently from a home office while leveraging internal expertise and resources across disciplines.
  • Project Ownership: Drive investigations through completion, ensuring high-quality deliverables that meet client expectations and industry standards.
  • Continuous Improvement: Contribute ideas to enhance processes, tools, and technical approaches to improve client outcomes.
Qualifications and Experience
Experience:
  • 5-10 years of experience working with or designing electrical systems.
  • Forensic engineering experience strongly preferred.
  • Experience investigating electrical failures, fires, or explosions.
  • Expert witness experience, including depositions and trial testimony, preferred.
  • Strong technical writing skills; ability to produce clear, defensible reports is critical.
  • Strong verbal communication and client service skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross-functional environment.
  • Proficiency with technical tools (computers, cameras, and engineering software).
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
Licensure & Certifications:
  • Professional Engineer (P.E.) license required.
  • Additional state licenses or ability to obtain via reciprocity preferred.
  • CFEI (NAFI), CFI, or related certifications preferred.
  • NCEES Record preferred.
Physical & Travel Requirements
  • Ability to perform field investigations, including inspections in confined spaces, rooftops, and industrial environments.
  • Ability to transport equipment and conduct site assessments safely.
  • Willingness to travel locally, regionally, and nationally as needed, including occasional overnight travel.
Education
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from an ABET-accredited university required.
  • Master's or PhD in Electrical Engineering preferred.
Location
  • Remote (home office) - U.S.-based (major metro areas preferred)
Compensation & Benefits
  • Base salary range: $120,000 - $170,000
  • Additional nondiscretionary compensation tied to billable productivity
  • Opportunity to transition to a productivity-based compensation model over time

This role is also eligible for a comprehensive U.S. benefits package, including:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Life, disability, and AD&D coverage
  • Health savings account and wellness resources
  • Professional development and training through Haag Education and Certification programs
Equal Opportunity Employment Statement
Salas O'Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type, consistent with applicable laws.
Third-Party Agency Notice
We do not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters or agencies. Submissions without an active agreement will not be eligible for placement fees.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Salas O'Brien employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply